Crack fries, also known as beer battered fries, are a delicious and addictive snack that are typically made from a few simple ingredients. The base of the fries is, of course, potatoes. Russet potatoes are often used for their high starch content, which helps to create a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
To make the beer batter, you will need flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. The flour and cornstarch help to create a light and crispy coating, while the baking powder adds some extra fluffiness to the fries. The salt and pepper season the batter and enhance the flavor.
Now, onto the star ingredient – beer! Beer is added to the batter to provide a unique flavor and help create a light and crispy texture. Any type of beer can be used, but lighter beers like lagers or pilsners work well. The carbonation in the beer also helps to create a light and airy batter.
To make the batter, you simply whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Slowly pour in the beer while whisking until you have a smooth and slightly thickened batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
Next, it's time to prepare the potatoes. Start by peeling and cutting them into your desired fry shape. Some people prefer thick-cut fries, while others like them thinner. It's really a matter of personal preference. Once the potatoes are cut, give them a good rinse to remove any excess starch.
Now it's time to fry! Heat a pot or deep fryer filled with oil to around 375°F (190°C). Working in batches, dip the potato slices into the beer batter, allowing any excess batter to drip off, and carefully place them into the hot oil. Fry the potatoes until they are golden brown and crispy, usually around 4-5 minutes. Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Once all of the fries are fried, it's time to season them. One popular seasoning mix for crack fries includes a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the amounts of each seasoning to your preference, keeping in mind that the cayenne pepper will add some heat. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the fries while they are still hot, so the flavors can meld together.
To take these fries to the next level, top them off with freshly grated parmesan cheese and some fresh basil. The parmesan adds a salty and nutty flavor, while the basil adds a bright and herbaceous note. The combination of these toppings with the crispy fries and flavorful seasoning is simply irresistible.
Crack fries are made from potatoes that are coated in a beer batter, fried until crispy, and then seasoned with a delicious blend of spices. The addition of freshly grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil takes them to a whole new level of flavor. Whether you're enjoying them as a snack or a side dish, these addictive fries are sure to be a hit.